Carragher had while speaking after Liverpool’s 2-0 win at Manchester City on Sunday, dismissed AFCON a major tournament
By Kehinde Okeowo
Liverpool legend, Jamie Carragher, has clapped back at ex-Manchester United defender, Rio Ferdinand after he waded into the controversy generated by his comment on Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Carragher, while speaking after Liverpool’s 2-0 win over Premier League champions, Manchester City at Etihad on Sunday, dismissed AFCON as a major tournament.
According to him, playing in AFCON will likely count against Mohamed Salah when the decision to pick the winner of the Ballon d’Or is being considered.
Speaking on Sky Sports, Carragher said: “I think the problem [is] the fact he’s with Egypt, and he’s probably not playing in the major tournament as such or maybe got a great chance of winning.
“I think it’s either the Champions League or the major tournament.
“Normally, the player who excels in that, like Vini Jr and (Kylian) Mbappe right now, Real Madrid looking really good going for the Champions League.”
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Reacting to his comment during the latest episode of his podcast, Ferdinand claimed that Carragher’s assessment represents the majority view and urged FIFA to help bring AFCON at par with the Euros and Copa America.
He said: “I understand what Jamie’s saying but I don’t agree with it. That’s the majority’s fault and its not right. I think the federations like FIFA need to make sure they implement language around AFCON so it equals the Euros and the Copa America.
“Jamie is right in what he is saying. If Salah won AFCON that would have no bearing on anyone when they vote for the Ballon d’Or, which is absolutely wrong.”
Responding to the comment via his Instagram page, Carragher said, “I didn’t say that you clown.
“Stop playing to the gallery like you always do.”
Meanwhile, Salah is yet to win the AFCON, finishing as runner-up twice in 2017 and 2021.
